At least 5,000 stakeholders from the private and public sectors are expected to attend, with key government officials poised to grace the high-level conversations.
The Summit aims to provide mechanisms for organizations to leverage technology, excel in research and business competence, and effective collaboration in the marketplace.
NAIROBI, JULY 31, 2023 – Kenya is set to host the first-ever Business Ecosystems Summit (BES) in Kisumu City on Friday, September 1st, 2023.
This is in line with ongoing key government reforms aimed at stimulating business growth across the country, bolstering economic independence and prosperity.
Organized by the IMC People Ltd in partnership with the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), the summit is aimed at unlocking the potential of collaborative networks and effectively navigating the dynamic shifts within various business landscapes.
Speaking about the upcoming summit, LREB Chairperson Governor Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o said Kisumu is ready and honored to host the summit.
“We are more than happy to host this dynamic gathering of visionary minds at the upcoming Inaugural Business Ecosystems summit. This summit is like no other, it serves as a catalyst for fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and creating harmonious collaborations. Together, we will explore groundbreaking strategies, embrace emerging technologies, and forge strategic partnerships to unlock the full potential of our business ecosystems. I invite all participants to join hands and embark on this transformative journey towards a prosperous future.” Said Governor Nyong’o.
The summit aims to provide mechanisms for organizations to leverage technology, excel in research and business competence, and compete effectively in the marketplace. This is in addition to driving new collaborations that press social and environmental challenges and foster sustainable practices and responsible business models.
In his address, LREB CEO Victor Nyagaya emphasized the paramount importance of the summit in propelling innovation and fostering substantial growth.
“Acting as a key partner, LREB are thrilled to actively participate in this transformative expedition and aid in the establishment of collaborative ecosystems.
LREB seeks within its mandate to enhance socio economic transformation of the bloc through leveraging on the economies of scale in its ecosystem and implement through collaboration with state and non-state actors the empowerment and participation of its over 15 million population. As a bloc we firmly believe that by embracing disruptive trends and nurturing strategic partnerships, we have the power to unlock a multitude of novel opportunities, resulting in enhanced prosperity and an increase in revenue. We are therefore calling upon all investors and businesses (those who can come in as sponsors and exhibitors) to register because we know the people of LREB will show up in huge numbers,” stated Nyagaya.
A public-private collaborative approach will take center stage at the summit with LREB chairperson Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and the governors of the 13 other member counties of LREB, including deputy chairperson H.E Ken Lusaka, who is also Bungoma County Governor gracing the high-level summit.
Representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Investment and other ministries, Senators, Members of Parliament, and Governors are expected to appear at the summit, signifying governments’ recognition of the critical role business ecosystems play in achieving economic growth.
Giving her remarks ahead of the summit, The IMC People CEO Jeanette Oromo said the summit’s key focus is accelerating business transformation and fostering innovation among diverse stakeholders including government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs.
“In light of the transformative and disruptive trends and the remarkable resilience exhibited during the pandemic, it is becoming increasingly evident that traditional paradigms need re-evaluation. Our intention, therefore, is to conduct this evaluation through the summit, utilizing modern technology, fostering collaborations, and addressing social and environmental challenges. Our goal is to shape the future of Kenya’s business ecosystems while working hand in hand with all players – Government, Investors and Business Communities to forge a way forward that makes it easier for accessibility to businesses in our regions by investors and vice – versa, customer acquisition and retention and transparency in regard to funding and investment.” said Oromo.
During the summit, a special focus will be made on fostering business ecosystems that center around shared sectors, missions, goals, and products. The primary goal is to maximize interactions and leverage each participant’s unique strengths. This approach aims to optimize collaboration and unlock the collective potential of all stakeholders by empowering them to engage with a comprehensive ecosystem, rather than dealing with individual entities separately.
Businesses who will be present are expected to find ways to harness creativity, collaboration and innovation to lower costs of production and find new customer acquisition strategies while attracting investment.
Month: July 2023
KCDF LAUNCHES THE ‘ART FOR CHANGE EXHIBITION’ FEATURING MORE THAN 40 LOCAL ARTISTS AND OVER 500 PIECES OF ART TO SUPPORT ITS GRANT MATCHING MODEL
Saturday, July 29, 2023. Nairobi, Kenya.
The Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) has today launched its second edition of the ‘Art for Change Exhibition’ featuring more than 40 artists and showcasing over 500 pieces of art, in a week-long event that seeks to raise resources towards its matching grant project model, also known as Pamoja4Change.
Themed “Our Communities – Art for Change,” the exhibition taking place at the Sarit Expo Centre, Cherangani Hall, Westlands, brings together painters, sculptors, illustrators, and community development actors, and embodies the spirit of creativity and community development. By leveraging the power of art, KCDF aims to uplift communities and enable them to create a better future for themselves. The event showcases incredible local artistic talent and highlights the impact of collective efforts in driving sustainable change.
Through the matching grant project model, KCDF encourages local giving and the promotion of self-reliance, through empowering marginalized and disadvantaged communities to identify their development challenges and find solutions using their own resources. Under this model, communities contribute 50% of the resources needed for their development projects, and KCDF matches the communities’ contribution. This approach fosters a sense of ownership, self-reliance, and confidence within communities, enabling them to tackle their own development challenges.
Over the last eleven years, the matching grant project model has witnessed success, with more than 200 projects implemented and over Kenya shillings 160 million raised as a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative impact of community-driven initiatives.
Speaking during the launch the KCDF Board Vice Chair, Mrs. Rose Mambo said that the exhibition marks a special moment for the organization as it brings together art and community development in a celebration of creativity and social impact.
“Art has power to transcend boundaries and connect people from all walks of life. It serves as a universal language that communicates emotions, sparks conversations, and ignites change. As we witness the diverse array of artwork displayed here today, we are reminded of the incredible talent and creativity that our country has to offer.” She said.
“Today, as we gather here surrounded by the captivating artworks of talented artists, let us remember that every purchase made during this exhibition will contribute to the transformation of lives and communities in Kenya. The matching grant project model has proven its impact, and now, by supporting our artists and their creations, we can further drive sustainable change.” She further said.
Also speaking during the launch, Ms. Grace Mangi, the KCDF Executive Director highlighted the importance of the event and its significance to the community. “This exhibition is all about putting our communities at the centre, therefore all proceeds from this event will go towards supporting projects in our communities.” She said.
Here are some of the community driven projects that KCDF has supported their implementation
1
through the matching grant model:
Okuto Community Library in Kisumu County. Through the dedication of Aniga Women CBO from Kisumu, the Okuto community came together to construct and equip a much-needed library at Okuto Primary School in West Seme Ward, Kisumu. The community harnessed the power of local fundraising tactics after going through KCDF’s local fundraising training in 2022. Using platforms like WhatsApp and organizing small meetings, they successfully raised Kes. 1 million towards the grant matching project, fostering a love for learning among children in the area, then KCDF was able to support the project by matching the with an equivalent donation.
Nkoilale Women Beadwork Craft Centre in Narok County. Collaborating with KCDF, the Nkoilale Community Development Foundation in Narok established this center in 2016. The craft centre serves as a platform for marginalized women to showcase their incredible beading talent and sell their products both locally and internationally.
Kidi Luanda Community Development Programme in Kisumu County. The community of Kidi Luanda embarked on a mission to create a better learning environment for students. They constructed three modern classrooms at Masongo Secondary School, providing a conducive space for students to thrive academically. With a budget of Kes. 2.5 million, this project has had a significant impact on enhancing educational outcomes for the students.
Kyeni Kya Mbiti CBO from Kitui County. In 2021, the community in Kitui took the initiative to address sanitation issues in their community by constructing new toilet blocks for both girls and boys, complete with a handwashing facility. With a budget of Kes. 801,500, they’ve elevated hygiene and sanitation standards, creating a healthier and more conducive environment for students to study and excel.
The 2023 Art for Change Exhibition is also live and accessible through the KCDF website
http://www.kcdf.or.ke
WHY NCBA PLANS TO INCREASE BANK BRANCHES IN THE DIGITAL AGE
Clive Ayuko
Nairobi, Kenya 25th July 2023
Speaking during the opening of the second NCBA bank branch in Ruiru constituency in less than a year, director of retail banking Mr Tirus Mwithiga responded to why the bank will continue opening new branches in its expansion drive by arguing, ” Banks and branches are still relevant despite the increasing digital age because customers make choices that are convenient. Simple transactions like withdrawing, sending or deposit of money, these can be done digitally but there are other transactions where people need advise to help them understand the product and the nature of the transaction.”
He continued to add, ” Taking a mortgage for instance is a big project that will run for 20 years and it is very unlikely that a client will be comfortable performing such transactions digitally, but a bank branch with advisors will help the client understand more about the product, the risks involved and make informed choices making the presence of branches very important.”
Also present during the Launch was Area member of Parliament for Ruiru Constituency Hon. Kingara Simon Ng’ang’a who indeed confirmed that the launch is the second in less than a year and will be instrumental in increasing access to finances to the 700,000 residents of Kahawa Sukari ward.
SAMSUNG INTRODUCES BESPOKE TOP MOUNT FRIDGE IN KENYA
The new refrigerator offers a wide range of Bespoke colors and finish options, AI-assisted energy saving, and optimal refrigeration modes for various lifestyle needs
Nairobi, Kenya, 21st July 2023… Samsung Electronics East Africa has introduced the Bespoke Top Mount Fridge (TMF) into the Kenyan market. The TMF refrigerator that is quite popular in other global markets combines elegant design with a full range of Bespoke color and texture options to help give every kitchen a unique and stylish decor. Equipped with the latest in freshness technologies and energy saving, it makes food storage convenient, efficient and flexible.
“These days, customers expect appliances to go beyond their basic functions,” said Junhwa Lee, EVP and Head of the Customer Experience Team of the Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “With a wide choice of colors and cutting-edge technologies like SmartThings Energy’s AI Energy Mode, Optimal Fresh+ and SpaceMax™, users can enjoy the next level of kitchen experiences by storing their food at peak freshness, all while saving energy and keeping the living space looking beautiful.”
Flat Door Design with a Range of Expressive Colors for a Unique, Stylish Look
The Bespoke TMF refrigerator’s flexible design options help customers realize the unique aesthetic of their kitchen. With a range of Bespoke colors and finishes to choose from and an elegantly simple modern flat door design, its stylish finish helps bring the colors of a kitchen to life. Glass textures in Clean Black, Clean Navy, Clean Peach, Clean Pink, Clean Vanilla and Clean White offer a sleek, color-enhancing finish for a refined, modern look. By contrast, Cotta textures in Metal Charcoal, Metal Pink and Metal White offer the warm, matte finish of baked terracotta.
“We understand that every home is unique, and the Samsung Bespoke refrigerators are designed to cater to this diversity. The Samsung research and Development team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail is taken care of, and the end result is a product that we are extremely proud to introduce to this market,” said the Head of Consumer Electronics at Samsung Electronics East Africa, Mr. Samuel Odhiambo “With the Bespoke refrigerators, Samsung has taken customization to a whole new level. The Bespoke refrigerators allow you to choose from a wide range of colors, materials, and finishes to perfectly match your home’s décor. The goal is to provide Kenyans with a refrigerator that not only meets their functional requirements but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of their home.”
To complement this range of colors and finishes, the Bespoke TMF refrigerator’s clean, contemporary flat door design features streamlined recessed handles that do not protrude or get in the way. With recessed handles and a smart, refined design, the Bespoke TMF refrigerator enriches color schemes and fits in seamlessly with existing kitchen furniture.
Effortless Energy Saving with AI Energy Mode
SmartThings Energy’s AI Energy Mode uses AI to keep track of usage patterns and power consumption of the Bespoke TMF. AI Energy Mode then analyzes the data to provide useful insights through the SmartThings app to help the user proactively save energy.
Users can monitor consumption cost estimates and get a better understanding of how they use their fridge. This usage statistic can be viewed on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, all up to user’s preferences. If an estimated monthly electricity bill goes over preset targets, SmartThings alerts users by recommending switching to AI Energy Mode, reducing energy use by up to 7% with just the press of a button.
Optimal Fresh+: Locking in Freshness and Flavor through Innovative Technology
The Bespoke TMF refrigerator’s Optimal Fresh+ compartment offers four distinct modes of refrigeration and can keep food fresh for up to twice as long as standard cooling.
Located in an independently controlled drawer installed at the top of the fridge, the four unique temperature modes, Fridge, Meat & Fish, Soft Freeze and Power Cool are designed to store different food types efficiently and optimally.
The Fridge mode is ideal for preserving fresh foods and frequently used daily items like dairy and deli foods. If users want to store unfrozen meat, fish and poultry, Meat & Fish mode is perfect for keeping it fresh and ready for up to seven days. The temperature setting for Meat & Fish mode can go up to -1℃. If users are looking for an even longer storage time without full freezing, Soft Freeze mode applies a thin coating of ice that prevents freezer burn and allows for pliable cutting with no defrosting required. The temperature setting for Soft Freeze can go up to -4℃. For rapidly locking in the freshness of groceries, Power Cool mode blasts the Optimal Fresh+ compartment with cold air, reaching low temperatures fast and chilling foods and beverages quickly.
With the dedicated Optimal Fresh+, the Bespoke TMF refrigerator lets users store all kinds of foods flexibly, making the storage of numerous food types simpler and more convenient.
More Space Inside, Same Size Outside with SpaceMax™
To give customers more freedom in how much food they can keep fresh at once, the Bespoke TMF refrigerator comes with 20 liters more storage capacity than previous models with no extra exterior bulk.
The Bespoke TMF refrigerator is designed with special SpaceMax™ technology that uses high urethane insulation to allow for much thinner fridge walls with no compromise in energy efficiency. This gives the Bespoke TMF refrigerator plentiful drawer and shelf space for foods of many shapes and sizes, all while retaining the sleek, streamlined look of its design.
To learn more about the innovations, the Bespoke TMF refrigerator delivers in freshness and connectivity and the freedom it offers users in terms of color choice and appliance management, visit Samsung.com. The Refrigerator is available at authorized Samsung Retail stores in all major towns in the Country.
NUBIANS LAUNCH SABALA FEST AT APEX UNIVERSITY
By Ranell Dickson Nsereko
The Nubians launched the much-anticipated Sabala Fest at Apex University, marking the second edition of this vibrant celebration of Nubian culture. The festival organizers have coined the term “Sabala” to represent the pinnacle of the dance between a man and a woman in Nubian culture.
This exciting event will showcase a plethora of exhibits, including diverse cuisines, fashionable clothing, captivating cultural dances, and thrilling entertainment performances by Nubians. The primary goal of the festival is to preserve the Nubian culture and raise awareness about its rich existence.
The Nubians have a distinct identity characterized by their unique attire and music, with dance movements resembling the grace of a crested crane. Their culture also exhibits influences from the western part of Uganda, while incorporating traditional jewelry like other Ugandan cultures.
The second edition of the festival promises to be even more remarkable, featuring a sensational performance by the renowned musician Nubian Li. The Sabala fest will take place at the prestigious Imperial Royal Hotel on September 2nd.
BUSINESS INCUBATOR FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN EAST AND SOUTH AFRICA LAUNCHED
Nairobi, Kenya Monday July 17 2023:
The COMESA Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB) Secretariat, with
the financial support of the AUDA-NEPAD/Spanish Fund, announced the launch of the Business
Incubators for African Women Entrepreneurs (BIAWE 2) pilot project in Kenya in an event which took place today morning at
the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), located on Popo Road, Off Mombasa Road,
Nairobi, Kenya.
Speaking during the launch Dr. Juma Mukhwana Principal Secretary in the State Department for Industry who represented, Hon. Moses Kuria, HSC, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade, and
Industry, delivered the keynote speech which highlighted the importance of empowering women
entrepreneurs and their contribution to the economy. He stated, “The forty women enterprises who
benefitted from BIAWE Project Phase I will continue to thrive and mature into sustainable and large
enterprises. They will in turn contribute to creating jobs and wealth, as well as contribute to local, regional,
and global development agendas.”
In his speech, Dr. Juma Mukhwana expressed great pleasure in addressing the gathering and celebrating the
achievements of the BIAWE project. He remarked, “It gives me great pleasure to address this gathering, as
we come together to celebrate a great milestone, the Business Incubator for African Women Entrepreneurs
(BIAWE) project, which was successfully implemented by KIRDI, and also launch the second phase of the
project.” He emphasized the institution’s commitment to remain a key player in the advancement of the
manufacturing sector in Kenya.
Ms. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, Secretary General of COMESA, addressed the challenges faced by women
entrepreneurs, including the lack of business planning, marketing, and management skills, as well as limited
access to business development and financial services due to cultural biases. She stressed the need to bridge
these gaps and create an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
The BIAWE 2 project will provide women entrepreneurs with business incubation services, mentorship,
training, access to markets, and financial support. By addressing these challenges, the project aims to unlock
the potential of women-owned enterprises and contribute to economic growth, job creation, and the
achievement of national and regional development goals.
The launch of BIAWE 2 marks a significant step towards empowering African women entrepreneurs and
fostering inclusive economic development. COMFWB, in collaboration with its partners, is committed to
supporting women-owned enterprises, promoting gender equality, and driving sustainable change across the
African continent. The BIAWE 2 project builds upon the success of its predecessor, BIAWE 1, and aims to
empower women entrepreneurs in Africa by providing them with the necessary support and resources for
business incubation.
More Than 500 youths Graduate from Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice, Cohort III
Nairobi, Kenya, July 15, 2023:
More than 500 youth from and outside Africa have
completed the intensive 14-day intensive training on Climate Justice in Nairobi, Kenya. The
Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) organized the training in partnership with
Kenyatta University, which opened the third Nairobi Summer School of Climate Justice
(NSSCJ) cohort in Nairobi Kenya.
Addressing participants, Dr. Mithika Mwenda, the Executive Director of PACJA commended
the youth for active participation in the two-week-long learning and called them for the next
challenge of advocating for Climate Justice.
With the knowledge and skills, you’ve gained from this program, you can become the driving
force behind Africa’s climate justice agenda. You now understand that climate change is not
simply an environmental issue but also a social, economic, and political one, Dr. Mithika
Encourage Cohort Three Alumni.
Dr. Mithika said youth are active and a strength of the continent hence their role is key in
advancing Climate Justice Advocacy.
As Africa’s youth, you are the future and the present. You are today’s leaders, shaping the
destiny of your continent and the planet. You are the champions of climate justice, inspiring
hope and change in your generation and beyond. So don’t stop now. This is only the beginning,”
Dr. Mithika challenged.
The Nairobi Summer School has been happening in partnership with Kenyatta University.
Dr. James Koske, Executive Dean, of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Science at
Kenyatta University, shared a commitment of the University to continually support the
process and called youth to sharpen their skills in climate change and the environment. He
emphasized that none can deny that the effects of climate change are real and called for joint
efforts for climate action.
“I myself speaking, I am a witness to climate Change issues. We have had policies on Climate
Change. When we went to school many years ago there was rain, and rivers were flooding and
it was hard to cross. Today they are no more. Therefore, we don’t need to persuade you that Climate Change is occurring, you are naturally persuaded and you need to know that this is not
an individual task; everybody is involved and that is why you are here”, said James Koske.
The Director of Programmes at the All Africa Conference of Churches, Dr. Ezekiel Lesmore
said that addressing the adverse impacts of climate change requires solidarity and no one
should work in isolation.
“We will remain accountable here or there. The question is what you shall respond about your
contribution to climate action because Climate Change is a matter of life and death,” stressed
Dr. Lesmore.
In her remarks, the Ambassador of Sweden to Kenya, HE Caroline Vicini, acknowledged the
role of PACJA in equipping youth with skills on climate justice and climate change and said
that information is power. She said that the skill gained by youth indicated that the future is
in their hands
“The school is important to base activism on science. I know it’s not easy but nothing works in
isolation. It’s important to be informed and I am hopeful that this generation will be better than
their leaders today”, said HE Ambassador Caroline
KENYA UNVEILS CLIMATE CHANGE INNOVATION FUND TARGETING YOUTH
Clive Ayuko
6th July 2023
The increased frequency of floods, heatwaves, and various other natural disasters points to a chilling period in human life. Christened the Anthropocene it is a dangerous geological age in which human activity has become the dominant influence on the global climate and the environment.
In contrast to the period Anthropocene, the Holocene which preceded it. A period lasting 12,000 years and which was characterised by stable climatic conditions, the Anthropocene however; reflects a period where we are almost reaching the tipping point and the earth changes fundamentally due to human activities which cause pollution to the environment making life for plant and animal varieties extremely harsh.
In 2021 the World Meteorological Organization WTO warned that East Africa’s three remaining Glaciers; the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Kenya in Kenya and the Ruwenzori in Uganda will vanish by the year 2040 leaving 118 million people within the East African nations facing drought. World Bank in a 2021 update warned that Sub-Saharan Africa could make up 86 million of the World’s 216 million climate migrants by 2050. Climate change refugees are mostly farmers who abandon agricultural work to seek greener pastures in poorly services, densely populated African cities. The average abundance of native plant and animal has fallen by 20% or more over the last 100 years with many species pushed to extinction. On 13th October 2020 during commemoration of International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction it was noted by the United Nations that there has been a twofold increase in disaster caused by extreme weather events between the period 1980 to 1999. All these factors and various othe calaminities made nations come to the consensus of limiting warming to 1.5°C as reflected in the Paris Agreement. This will require the world to cut green house emissions by half and make aggressive push towards reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Net Zero meaning any carbon emission produced in the environment as a result of human activity are equally and fully absorbed or converted by the environment.
In Kenya the Government through President William Ruto unveiled a plan to plant 15 billion trees by the year 2030. Other initiatives are by the organization like the Kenya Community Development Foundation KCDF which for instance unveiled the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge, a fund geared towards developing action oriented youth committed to conserving the environment.
Submission for the Young Environmentalist Innovations Challenge are to be made strictly online with individuals who make it to the short-list receiving between Ksh800,000 and Ksh1,500,000 while for organizations grants of between 3 Million upto 5 million will be offered to enable such organizations and the individuals implement their innovative submissions to mitigate or help limit the negative effects of Climate change.
ENGINEERS BODY CONDEMN ASSAULT OF KENYA POWER SERVICE ENGINEER BY MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
6th July 2023
Clive Ayuko
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya has come out to condemn the assault of a Kenya Power and lighting Company service engineer by Kitui East Member of Parliament Hon. Nimrod Mbai while conducting his day to day service duties.
In a viral video circulating on social media platforms Mr Julius Onkangi who is a graduate engineer registration number B4499 is seen getting slapped by the Member of Parliament while attempting to disconnect electricity which is said to have been connected illegally following an outcry by neighbourhood residents whose electricity has become dim and faulty. It is in light of this outcry that KPLC staff discovered a massive illegal connection leading to the member of parliaments palatial home under construction.
Speaking at the headquarters of the Institute of Engineers of Kenya in Nairobi President of the professional body Engineer Engineer Erick Ohaga lamented saying as an Institute and the entire engineering fraternity is dismayed by the Incident further adding that as an institution they are looking towards getting enjoined in the case to ensure that justice is served and the Hon member faces the full force of the law. Hon Mbai has since been released on a cash bail following his apprehension with the case currently pending in court.
MORE THAN 70% OF DOCTORS WHO RELIEVE CHILD PAIN DURING SURGERY OR TREATMENT IN NAIROBI
Clive Ayuko
Nairobi, Kenya 2nd July 2023
14 out of the total 20 Pediatric Anaesthesiologists based in the country are based in Nairobi with the remaining 6 providing services in the remaining 46 counties. This was made known during the launch of the Society of Pediatric Anaesthesiologists Kenya Chapter at Gertrudes’ Children’s Hospital in Muthaiga Nairobi late last week.
If your Child is suffering from an injury or disease which requires surgery chances are that a pediatric anaesthesiologist is one of the specialist who will be present to assist in the surgery together with the paediatric surgeon and various other specialist doctors.
An anaesthesiologist is a specialist who administers drugs or various other pharmaceutical agents to stop or minimise pain during surgery or various other medical procedures. A paediatric anathesiologists in turn is a specialist with trained in administering drugs and agents in infants, Children or adolescents undergoing surgery or various other therapeutic or medical treatment procedures. In Kenya only 20 such specialist exist with Nairobi housing 14 out of the 20.
This was a statement made by Dr. Praxedes Okutoyi, a founding member and Chairperson of Society of Pediatric Anaesthesiologists Kenya Chapter who was speaking during the launch of the professional association Society of Paediatric Anathesiologists Kenya Chaper at Gertrude Children Hospital in Nairobi late last week. The Society for Pediatric Anesthesia advances the safety and quality of anesthesia care, perioperative care, and pain management in children by educating clinicians, supporting research, and fostering collaboration among clinicians, patient families, and professional organizations worldwide.
She continued to add, ” The reason why we formed the Society of Paediatric Anathesiologists Kenya Chapter is we wanted a platform where we could advocate for better paediatric anaesthesia for children seeking treatment for ailments which require surgery. We realised that the surgical need is high because 50% of Kenya’s population is of children under 14 years in low and middle income counties, 85 percent of whom will require need for surgery before they attain the age of 20 year and according to international standards paediatric Anaesthesiologists is supposed to assist the paediatric surgeon in administration of anaesthesia during surgery. If you examine the situation in Kenya we are very few. In the whole country there are only 20 such specialists with majority 14 based in the capital Nairobi. The other 46 counties are hardly represented. So we started the society with the aim of capacity building and as a lobby to increase the numbers of Paediatric Anathesiologists so that we are able to meet the surgical demand for child patients.”
The whistling African 
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